Quality furniture made from real wood can literally last for generations. This simple fact is at the root of why real wood furniture is such a good investment. Of course, as we are Amish Furniture Factory, it likely will come as no surprise that we feel that way. But there are a variety of reasons why that is the case. It isn’t just about appearance, wood is a healthier material and it will also pay off in giving you years of trouble-free use.
Cheap furniture, made from so-called manufactured board, which is really just a combination of glues, chemical binders and wood fragments, can’t possibly measure up to good old fashioned authentic wood. Inexpensive furniture comes with a range of problems and issues. For example, cheap furniture may look good at first, but it doesn’t last. That means that you will have to go through the trouble of replacing it sooner than later.
Another key problem with cheap furniture is that since it is usually made from a combination of chemicals and wood fragments, this kind of furniture tends to release harmful VOCs or volatile organic compounds into the air. Most people understandably don’t think about air pollution when they buy furniture, but the simple fact is that cheap wood furniture can degas for many years to come. That means that it can negatively impact your health and the health of your family.
Since real wood furniture is an investment, it only makes sense to do everything you can to protect that investment. In this article, we are going to explore seven tips for how you can protect your real wood furniture so that it continues to last and last.
#1 Treat Wood Furniture Right and It Will Last for Decades
The simplest method of safeguarding wood furniture involves exercising fundamental care and preventive measures.
This entails not exposing your wood furniture to harsh outdoor elements unless it is specifically treated for outdoor use.
For indoor wood furniture, it’s crucial to shield it from moisture and heat sources, as real wood, despite its durability, is not immune to damage. Regularly using coasters, avoiding placing hot items directly on the surface, and keeping the furniture away from direct sunlight or heating vents are essential steps. Such proactive care ensures that even the sturdiest wood furniture maintains its quality and longevity for years.
#2 Protect Wood Furniture from Moisture and Damage
Another step in protecting wood furniture is to finish that furniture. Unfinished wood furniture is more susceptible to damage. There are many non-toxic ways to finish your wood furniture so that it will last for decades.
Finishing or treating unfinished wood furniture is something that you may want to consider. It is, however, important to exercise caution if you are finishing or treating your own furniture. Many finishes and treatments on the market contain potentially harmful chemicals. For this reason, you should know what ingredients are in a given finish or treatment and then take necessary precautions when applying those treatments.
Arguably, the most important thing to remember when owning finished Amish furniture is to keep moisture away from it. You probably aren’t going to leave your new furniture outside under the rain, but moisture can still reach it. For instance, people oftentimes lay their drinks down on coffee or end tables without thinking twice. The problem in doing so is that condensation from the glass will drip down onto the table, at which point it will work its way into the finish. If you must place your drinks down on your new Amish furniture, always use a thick coaster for protection.
In addition, you need to be aware of the humidity levels in your home. Placing your newly finished Amish furniture up against an air vent could result in too much humidity, and this will have the same effect as placing water directly on it.
#3 Exercise Proper Health and Safety Precautions When Treating or Finishing Wood
In general, it is best to apply any finishes or treatments in a well-ventilated area, even outdoors if possible, and gloves and even as face mask should be used. Additionally, it is critically important to keep children and pets out of your work area when you are finishing or treating wood furniture. Most finishes and treatments will release vapors that can harm lungs and even damage your body.
While finishes and treatments are a great way to preserve your wood furniture, care must be exercised. Once you have applied a treatment or finish to your wood furniture, you will want to let that furniture dry in an area far from your family and pets.
If you are thinking about breathing new life into your old wood furniture there are some steps you should take. Refinishing wood furniture usually means sanding, and that means you will be causing a lot of wood particles to be released into the air. Just as it is necessary to wear a respirator or mask when applying finishes and treatments, the same holds true for sanding wood. Refinishing your furniture can be rewarding and a lot of fun but it is important to take the necessary safety precautions.
#4 Remember that Oil and Wood are a Winning Combination
There are many simple steps you can take to protect your wood furniture. One of the first steps in protecting wood is to use oil. Coating your wood with a safe oil, such as tung oil, every couple of years will help keep your wood in great shape.
There are other oil options as well. Many people have great results with a mineral oil and even coconut oil. Yes, even an oil as “simple” as coconut oil can yield positive results. Before you apply any oil to your wood you should clean the area.
Once you have finished applying the oil be sure to wipe up any excess oil. You may discover that it is necessary to apply more than one coating to your wood to achieve your desired results.
#5 Avoid Harsh Cleaning Chemicals
The number one rule for protecting the integrity of your Amish furniture is to avoid cleaning agents containing harsh chemicals. Many homeowners use the same “all-purpose” cleaners like Pledge on their furniture as they do on their kitchen counter-tops. You may not realize it, but those same cleaners may strip the protective coating off your Amish furniture, leaving it vulnerable to the effects of moisture in the air.
The reason for this is because wood is naturally porous and absorbs the moisture in the surrounding air. After all, that’s how they grow and thrive in the forests. Unfortunately, moisture can take its toll on dead wood, causing it to rot and decay away.
To prevent this from happening, manufacturers of Amish furniture add a coat of protective varnish to the surface of the furniture.
#6 Avoid Dust Accumulation on Your Furniture
Many people don’t realize just how damaging excess dust can be for furniture. Once it’s sat on the surface of Amish furniture for prolonged lengths of time, it will become embedded into the pores where it affects the finish. Try to get into the habit of dusting your Amish furniture at least once every other week to prevent this from happening.
You don’t have to spend half an hour meticulously cleaning every square inch of it, but instead just run over it with a basic feather duster a couple of times. This should remove most of the dust, preventing it from damaging the finish on your furniture.
Sometimes it takes a little bit more than just a dusting cloth to clean your Amish furniture. If there’s residue from sodas or food particles left on the furniture, you can clean it off using a damp towel with a small amount of dish soap. Just remember to dry it thoroughly after you’re finished to prevent any moisture from soaking in.
#7 Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure
Minimizing your wood furniture’s exposure to direct sunlight is crucial for preserving its condition and appearance.
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to fading, drying, and cracking of the wood, significantly diminishing its aesthetic appeal and potentially affecting its structural integrity.
By positioning furniture away from direct sun or using window treatments to filter light, you can protect your wood pieces from these harmful effects and maintain their beauty and durability over time.
In addition to positioning furniture away from direct sunlight and using window treatments, consider the use of UV-blocking varnishes or sealants that offer an extra layer of protection for your wood furniture. This approach is especially beneficial for pieces that cannot be completely shielded from sunlight, ensuring long-term preservation of the wood’s color and texture.
Enjoy Your Furniture
In summary, taking care of real wood couldn’t be any easier. Wood is tough and will last and last. It will be durable and look fantastic for many years to come. Once you place it in your home, you really can sit back and relax.
With following just a few simple steps, your wood furniture should be trouble-free and even an heirloom that you can pass down to future generations.
A piece of high-quality, well-built wood furniture will, in fact, last not just for decades but for centuries. The time you invest in taking care of your wood furniture is time well-spent.